revolutionist
/,revə'lu:ʃnist/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A person who actively supports, advocates for, or participates in a fundamental and often violent change in a political system or social order. A revolutionist seeks to overthrow an established government or societal structure to replace it with a new one.
Usage
The term "revolutionist" is used to describe an individual committed to revolutionary change. It is a formal synonym for "revolutionary" when used as a noun. It often carries a historical or ideological connotation. - The famous revolutionist gave a speech inspiring the crowd to action. - Historians debate whether he was a visionary leader or a dangerous revolutionist.
Advanced Usage
- As an ideological label: The term can be used to categorize someone within a specific historical or political movement (e.g., an , a ).
- In contrast to "reformer": A revolutionist typically seeks complete, systemic overthrow, unlike a reformer who seeks change within the existing system.
Variants and Related Words
- Revolutionary (noun & adjective): The more common modern synonym. As a noun, it has the same meaning as "revolutionist." As an adjective, it describes something related to or causing revolution (e.g., ).
- Revolution (noun): The fundamental change itself.
- Revolutionize (verb): To change something radically or completely.
Synonyms
- Insurrectionist: A person who rises in active revolt.
- Rebel: A person who resists authority, control, or tradition.
- Radical: A person who advocates thorough or complete political or social reform.
- Subversive: A person seeking to undermine or overthrow an established system.
Antonyms
- Reactionary: A person who opposes political or social liberalization or reform.
- Conservative: A person who is averse to change and holds to traditional values and attitudes.
- Loyalist: A person who remains loyal to the established ruler or government.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Agent of change: A neutral or positive term for someone who causes significant change, not necessarily through revolution.
- Foment revolution: To instigate or stir up revolutionary activity. (e.g., )
Noun
- a radical supporter of political or social revolution